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al protein of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), has played an important role in reverse cholesterol transport and cellular cholesterol homeostasis. Because of its multifunctional role in immunity, inflammation, apoptosis, and viral, and bacterial infection, among other things, HDL (High-density lipoprotein) exceeds its potential to safeguard the cardiovascular system. This lowers cardiovascular disease risk, earning it the protective fat removal particle. Its structural homology with prostacyclin stabilizing factor has led to its anti-clotting and anti-aggregatory activity on platelets, which enhance both its cardioprotective and healing efficacy against Alzheimer's disease. 
 

All about Apolipoprotein A-I 
 

Lipoproteins are formed when proteins bond to lipids. They aid in the movement of lipids through the lymphatic and circulatory systems. A variety of factors influence their synthesis in the liver, including dietary composition, hormones (insulin, glucagon, thyroxin, oestrogens, and androgens), alcohol consumption, and other medicines (statins, niacin, and fabric acids). The APOA1 gene encodes apolipoprotein A-I, a highly abundant plasma protein. It is the main protein component of HDL (High-density lipoprotein) or "good cholesterol," and it plays a specific role in lipid metabolism and the body's anticlotting action. Defects in the gene that codes for it have been linked to HDL deficits, including Tangier disease, and systemic non-neuropathic amyloidosis. 
 

Apolipoprotein A1 testing determines the amount of apolipoprotein A in the blood. It is used to assess a patient's risk of developing cardiovascular disease. 
 

Why Apolipoprotein A-I test is done? 

The Apolipoprotein A-1 blood test evaluates the survival rate or risk factors in those who have had previous heart attacks, peripheral vascular disorders, or hyperlipidaemia. Apo A-I levels may also be requested to assist in the diagnosis of illnesses that cause Apo A-I deficits, as well as to monitor the effectiveness of lifestyle changes and lipid therapies. 
 

Apo A-1 transports cholesterol from the tissues to the liver for metabolism. It keeps plaque-forming cholesterol out of the arteries. Exciting new research reveals that Apolipoprotein A-1 blood levels may be a stronger predictor of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD) than typical cholesterol testing for HDL, LDL, and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) (VLDL). It helps in: 
 

• Cardiovascular risk assessment 
• Follow-up studies in people with basic lipid measurements that do not match their risk factors or symptoms 
• Comprehensive research on the causes of heart disease in those with a strong family history of the condition or other risk factors

 

When your healthcare professional is trying to determine your risk of developing heart disease, when keeping track of the success of lipid treatment and/or lifestyle adjustments, when you have a low HDL-C value, high cholesterol, and triglyceride levels (hyperlipidaemia), and/or a family history of CVD. 
 

Reasons why one should go for an Apolipoprotein A-I test 
 

The following symptoms indicate one should need an Apolipoprotein A-I test  
 

• Heartburn or indigestion 
• Pain in the arm (usually the left arm, but it can be either arm) 
• Shortness of breath 
• Headaches 
• Upper back pain 
• General malaise are symptoms that are frequently reported (vague feeling of illness) 
• Pain, a feeling of the chest being filled or squeezed 
• Toothache 
• Jaw pain 
• Nausea 
• General epigastric (upper middle belly) discomfort and sweating. 

  
Preparations and procedure for Apolipoprotein A1 test 
 

Instructions befre getting ready for specimen collection:  
 

Fasting is necessary. Fasting samples must be taken following an overnight fast of at least 12 to 14 hours. Water and other clear liquids are acceptable during this time. Tea, coffee, and milk should not be consumed in the morning until the specimen collection is over. Before the collection of the samples, discuss with your doctor whether you should continue taking any oral or injectable hypoglycemic drugs you are already taking for diabetes. 
 

• A blood or serum sample is taken from a vein in your arm, or a baby's heel or finger after being pricked. 
• Then the sample is centrifuged and aliquot part 1 mL of serum. 
• The sample is stored refrigerated (preferred) for 8 days, Frozen for 60 days or in ambient condition for 24 hours. 

 

​​​​​Knowing the Results of the Apolipoprotein A1 test 
 

Normal levels:
 

The normal range in males is 94-178 mg/dL. For females, the normal range is higher than 140 mg/dL. The normal range varies from lab to lab. 
 

High levels: 
 

The primary component of HDL, or healthy cholesterol, is Apolipoprotein A. As a result, high levels of apolipoprotein imply that HDL levels are enough. 

Exercise and other drugs have been shown to raise apo A-1 levels. The following are some of the causes of increased apolipoprotein A1 levels: 
 

• A few medications, like phenobarbital, oestrogens, carbamazepine, and niacin. 
• Physical activity 
• Oral contraceptives for pregnancy 
• Loss of weight 
• Utilization of statins like pravastatin, lovastatin, and simvastatin 
• Hyper-A-lipoproteinemia congenital 

 

Low levels: 
 

Low Apolipoprotein A-1 levels are a sign of low HDL levels and raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, it shows that the body's ability to remove extra cholesterol is ineffective. High concentrations of apo B and low levels of apo A-1 both increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. 
 

Apolipoprotein A1 levels have been seen to drop in situations like: 
 

• Recurring renal conditions 
• Smoking 
• Unmanageable diabetes 
• Obesity 
• Several medications, like progestins, beta-blockers, diuretics, and androgens 
• Persistent liver disease 
• The levels of apo A1 are also lowered by some hereditary disorders 
• Consuming a diet high in polyunsaturated fats and carbs 

Lower apo A1 levels are also a result of high BMI. Lower levels of apolipoprotein A can also be brought on by certain medical disorders such as coronary artery disease, nephritic syndromes, cholestasis, etc. 
 

Taking precautions to keep Apolipoprotein A1 levels within normal range 

A few behavioural and lifestyle adjustments that help improve HDL levels also increase apo A1. Exercise and dietary adjustments may also assist to keep levels normal. To keep your cholesterol and lipoprotein levels in check, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, lean meat, and proteins. In addition to raising levels, losing weight may lower your chance of getting heart disease. The most effective strategy to increase apo A1 levels is regular exercise. The best approaches to maintain normal HDL and apo A1 levels include reducing the amount of saturated fat in the diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular physical activity. 
 

What are the risks involved in an Apolipoprotein A-I test? 
 

A blood sample is taken using a vein puncture for the test. In general, there are no hazards connected with this sort of blood test. Side effects may occur in some circumstances, and these include: 
 

• Excessive bleeding at the puncture site 
• Soreness or pain at the puncture location 
• Difficulty identifying a vein and obtaining a sample through multiple punctures 
• Hematoma 
• Infection caused by the needle used Dizziness or fainting at the sight of blood 
• These adverse effects do not require treatment and will fade on their own. 

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